by Jonn Lavinnder
The content of The HighWay is determined to a great extent by what is submitted each month. The October edition was a notable issue and received many positive comments. Of course this put the pressure on to do at least as well this month. As the deadline approached, the submissions seemed a bit light. Fortunately, by the time I received the Bishop's article I noticed this month's edition was taking form in an interesting way. I had planned to write an editorial on the meaning of mission because that is what I'm going through on a local level. And "lo and behold" three articles contained the same theme.
It is quite likely that Bishop John influenced me because he was the one who set this theme in motion. However, I was surprised when I read Randall Fairey’s report and the fact that the theme of mission was also on the mind of our Primate, Fred Hiltz.
What struck me, as I wrestled with the subject was twofold. First, that mission requires strong leadership, which will inspire and generate enthusiasm. However, both of these qualities are not typically Anglican. Second, that leadership should come from the clergy. Laity can make plans and spearhead various missions, but it is necessary for the priest-in-charge to back it with a strong endorsement. Only then will congregational growth flourish because for the congregation the mission becomes God appointed.
Like super-mums who have two jobs to manage: family and career; super-priests are needed with the skills of not only being a spiritual shepherd, but also being pragmatic and knowledgeable about such things as public relations and so forth. I feel that, as with the front-page headline story, Anglican's are in a position to become more visible if they participate in local events and invite others to join them.
Some denominational churches are growing. What they offer regarding mission is varied and plentiful. However, there is not one formula for what works. For example, one Lutheran congregation that is experiencing growth introduced more ceremony into their worship. The priest had been inspired to do so after attending a retreat. What he introduced would not be new for most Anglicans, but for this Lutheran church it was.
What made it work was that the congregation got caught up by the priest’s enthusiasm. There may have been a few dissenting voices, but on the whole his enthusiasm carried the congregation past any objections. And the word got around that things were happening there.
